Lexus NX AZ20
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The Lexus NX AZ20 is the second generation of the compact premium SUV and a clear step forward over its predecessor — more modern in technology, controls and drivetrain. As a compact SUV it remains a comfortable, high-quality all-rounder with the familiar Lexus focus on quietness and build, but it brings noticeably fresher assistance and infotainment systems.
There are two very different engine characters. The T24A-FTS, a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, replaces the former V6 in the NX 350 and delivers plenty of power, yet feels distinctly less cultivated in sound and running than the six-cylinder. The long-term concern is possible timing chain stretch; in addition, the EGR cooler can crack and the injection system can cause complications. The more sensible choice for most buyers is the A25A-FXS, the 2.5-litre full hybrid from the Dynamic Force family, which is considered rock-solid and realistically manages 250,000 kilometres and more. It remains important to clean the EGR valve from around 70,000 kilometres to prevent coking; there is also a TSB for the oil pan gasket and oil emulsion on short trips in the cold.
As a newer model, the AZ20 shows the teething troubles typical of fresh vehicles. Notable issues include infotainment software faults, a 12V battery drain, wheel bolt corrosion and several recalls: a VSC system software recall and a safety-critical recall concerning the spiral cable, which can prevent airbag deployment — this one must have been carried out. There is also hesitant, jerky shifting from the 8-speed automatic along with cold-start judder, a failing fuel door release, windscreen stress cracks and an unreliable wireless charging pad.
When buying used, the hybrid is recommended for low costs and long life, while the 2.4 turbo appeals to buyers who want more power and are willing to keep an eye on chain wear. In every case, have all recalls — especially the spiral cable and the VSC update — confirmed in writing as completed, check the software version and watch the transmission behaviour when cold.
Bottom line: the NX AZ20 is a modern, well-made compact SUV with very solid fundamentals that initially struggled with some software and detail flaws. Choose the hybrid, verify the recalls and know the teething issues, and you get a reliable, value-stable vehicle with the typical Lexus long-term potential.
Generations
Engine Overview
The Lexus NX AZ20 is available with 2 engine variants — from 243 to 275 hp.
2.4L turbo four — replaces the 3.5L V6 in the 2023+ RX and NX 350. Adequate power but noticeably less refined than the V6 it replaces. Timing chain stretch is the long-term concern — inspection at 80,000 miles, replacement at 120,000 miles. EGR cooler cracks have been documented on early units. Fuel injection system issues can appear around 50,000-60,000 miles. Still a young engine with limited long-term data. The turbo-four in a luxury SUV feels like a cost reduction, not an improvement.
- !! Timing Chain Stretch from 130,000 km
The T24A-FTS timing chain stretches over time despite Toyota marketing it as maintenance-free. Tensioners compensate initially but eventually the chain develops a subtle rattle. If unaddressed, the chain can jump or break, requiring engine replacement. Inspection recommended at 80,000 miles, replacement at 120,000 miles. Expected lifespan of the engine is 160,000-180,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Symptoms: Subtle rattling noise on cold start, check engine light (timing codes), rough idle, reduced power - !! EGR Cooler Cracking
Early production T24A-FTS engines show cracking of the EGR cooler, allowing coolant to leak into the combustion chamber. Produces white smoke from exhaust and progressive coolant loss. The EGR valve itself can also clog around 100,000 miles. Early 2022-2023 production units appear most affected.
Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, coolant level dropping with no visible external leak, sweet smell from exhaust - !! Fuel Injection System Complications from 90,000 km
The D-4ST dual injection system is sensitive to fuel quality and purity. Injector fouling documented around 50,000-60,000 miles. The engine requires 91 octane premium fuel — using regular fuel can cause damage and may void warranty. Regular fuel filter changes recommended.
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, check engine light, reduced fuel economy
This 2.5-litre four-cylinder from the Dynamic Force family works in a hybrid setup and is fundamentally solid — 250,000 km and more is realistic. Its high efficiency comes from an aggressive combustion process with heavy exhaust gas recirculation, so the EGR valve should be cleaned from around 70,000 km or it risks coking up. The EGR cooler can crack at any mileage and lose coolant — a known weak point. Frequent short trips in the cold can cause oil emulsion, so occasional full warm-ups help. A leaking oil pan gasket is documented via TSB. Otherwise an economical, durable engine.
- !! Oil Pan Gasket Leak (TSB) from 40,000 km
Toyota Technical Tip T-TT-0672-21 documents oil leaks from the No. 2 oil pan on 2021-2022 TMMK-produced A25A-FXS engines. A manufacturing process issue causes the oil pan gasket to fail prematurely. Dealer repair under warranty involves oil pan reseal.
Symptoms: Oil drip from lower engine, oil spots on ground, oil residue on oil pan surface - ! Oil Emulsion From Short-Trip Cold Weather Use
During short trips at freezing temperatures, moisture from blow-by gases condenses in the crankcase, producing milky emulsion on the oil cap and in the oil. TSB EG-00731T-TME (2022) addresses this. Not a head gasket leak — resolved by occasional longer drives that bring the engine to full operating temperature.
Symptoms: Milky residue on oil cap, white deposits inside valve cover, low oil pressure warning in severe cases - ! EGR System Clogging from 160,000 km
The EGR system accumulates carbon deposits over time. Hybrid operation with frequent engine start-stop cycles accelerates buildup. EGR valve cleaning or replacement typically needed around 100,000 miles. Preventable with occasional sustained highway driving.
Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, reduced power, increased emissions
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| 12V Battery Drain 12V battery drains if vehicle sits unused for extended periods. Electronic modules fail to enter deep sleep. More common on vehicles with multiple connected services active. Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting, keyless entry failure, slow cranking | Low | |
| Infotainment Software Bugs New touchscreen infotainment has software bugs: CarPlay/Android Auto disconnects, Bluetooth pairing drops, screen freezes. Software updates improve over time. A significant improvement over the old touchpad despite the bugs. Symptoms: CarPlay disconnects, Bluetooth drops connection, screen freeze, random restarts | Low | |
| Fuel Door Release Failure Electric fuel door release fails to open when button is pressed. Dealer replacement under warranty. Known issue acknowledged by Lexus service departments. Symptoms: Fuel door won't open via button, manual release required | Low | |
| Wireless Charging Pad Fails to Charge Reliably Qi pad stops charging after 30 seconds, especially iPhones with cases. Revised unit 861C0-F6010. Symptoms: Phone charges 30 seconds then stops, poor with cases or warm weather | Low |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 16 weaknesses have been documented for the Lexus NX AZ20 (2022–2025) — 6 engine-related and 10 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Electronics, Body, Other, Gearbox. Considered reliable: A25A-FXS (2.5L Hybrid).
NX (T24A-FTS, 2022–2025) — Be Careful: Timing Chain Stretch, EGR Cooler Cracking, Fuel Injection System Complications. Power: 275 PS.
What to watch out for with the Lexus NX? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Lexus NX AZ20 have? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee